Before You Start

Make sure you have completed the following before heading to the job site:

• The Leica 3D Disto software is installed on your Windows PC or tablet
• Your CCP license key has been activated successfully
• The 3D Disto battery is fully charged
• You have a stable tripod and tribrach for mounting

See Installing the Software and Invalid License Key Error if you haven’t completed setup yet.

Step 1: Mount and Level the Instrument

Set up your tripod at a stable location with clear sightlines to the areas you need to measure. Attach the tribrach to the tripod, then mount the 3D Disto unit on the tribrach. Use the tribrach’s leveling screws and the circular bubble to level the instrument. Accurate leveling is essential — any tilt will introduce errors into all subsequent measurements.

Step 2: Power On and Connect

Press the power button on the 3D Disto unit. On your PC or tablet, launch the Leica 3D Disto software. Connect to the instrument via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi from within the software. The status bar will confirm when the connection is established. If you have connection issues, see Troubleshooting Connection Issues.

Step 3: Create a New Project

In the software, go to File > New Project and give your project a name. Choose a save location on your local drive or connected storage. In v6, this is also the time to set up your layer structure if you plan to use layers. See Working with Layers in v6 for guidance.

Step 4: Set Up Your Reference Plane

The 3D Disto calculates coordinates relative to a defined reference plane and origin. Before measuring, you need to establish this reference by pointing the laser at known reference points or by defining a floor, wall, or other flat surface. The software will walk you through the reference setup process. Refer to the User Manual for detailed instructions on each reference method.

Step 5: Start Measuring

Once the reference is set, aim the laser at your target point and click Measure (or use the keyboard shortcut). The software will capture the 3D coordinate and add it to your project. Assign points to layers as needed, and continue measuring.

Step 6: Save and Export

Save your project regularly during work. When finished, you can export your data to DXF, CSV, or other formats for use in CAD or spreadsheet applications. See Exporting Data from the 3D Disto for details on each export option.

Additional Resources

For in-depth tutorials and video walkthroughs, visit the Leica Learning Centre. Leica’s training resources are the most comprehensive reference for operational workflows.